We come together to honor the diverse fabric of Black and Brown lives that have influenced our history, culture, and activism at the center of our community. Too often, it is tragedy that unites us in collective sorrow, and in the shadow of constant grief, we risk overlooking the joy and celebration of our existence and those who paved our paths. "Ancestor's Altar: Honoring Our Legacy" is an immersive and interactive installation created for this purpose. It's a space dedicated for gratitude and remembrance, a place where we can celebrate our ancestors, connect with our past, and honor the key activists, fathers, mothers, siblings, elders, kin, and friends who, though no longer with us, continue to inspire us with hope.

The images that were submitted will be displayed among a sacred altar as soon as you walk into the exhibition area. Each photograph conveys a different tale, a treasured memory, and a link to our common history. These photos serve as a constant reminder of their enduring influence on our thoughts and emotions.

Participants are invited to join in a rite of memory upon entering the room. As offerings, you are welcome to light candles, burn incense, leave trinkets, or write onto the walls in remembrance of their ancestors.

In this exhibition, we present an adjoining installation, featuring a compelling photo series that explores the themes of Black beauty and the essence of the Black woman. This series, a collaborative effort by artists Crystal Scott, Kelsea Abrams, Tiffany Fulson, and Yarmani Hamilton, offers a visual narrative that complements the central theme of honoring our ancestors.

At the heart of this space stands a wicker throne, intricately crafted and conjures the memory of iconic figures like Huey P. Newton and the majesty of tribal royalty, whose stories have faded in the collective memory during the diaspora.

This throne is not just a piece of art; it beckons for guests to sit on the throne and immerse themselves in a moment of reflection and respect in front of the Ancestor's Altar.

This choice to include the throne is deliberate. It represents a foundation of strength, sacrifice, and love laid down by those who preceded us. It is a physical embodiment of the legacy and resilience of our ancestors, whose lives and stories are the bedrock of our community. Through this installation, we aim to create a space that not only commemorates but also celebrates the enduring spirit and contributions of our ancestors. 

@ The Dojo Presents: Black & Brown Babes Vol. 3 (2017) Chicago, IL